1979 - Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk and Yap ratify constitution setting up the Federated States of Micronesia.

Micronesia's small land mass is scattered over a huge ocean expanse

1986 - Micronesia signs a "Compact of Free Association" with the US, under which Washington provides substantial economic assistance in return for taking charge of Micronesia's defence affairs, including the right to establish military bases.

1991 - Micronesia joins the UN.

1999 - Micronesia and US begin talks on their relations after the "Compact of Free Association" expires in 2001.